What happened
During cruise flight, a single engine helicopter was flying westbound over the middle of a highway. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude, approximately treetop level, for about 1,000 feet in the half-mile preceding the accident. The aircraft was seen over-flying a parade route prior to the event.
The collision occurred when the helicopter's landing skid caught a static power line wire positioned approximately 52 feet above the ground. This impact caused the aircraft to rotate upside down, resulting in an impact with the middle of the road. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the accident, and there were no fatalities reported.
The investigation
An inspection of the helicopter was conducted following the crash. The examination revealed no pre-impact airframe or engine anomalies.